Best and worst easter eggs for your teeth, ranked by a dentist
Published: 27/03/2024
Ferakh Hamid reveals how you can enjoy these sweet treats without compromising oral hygiene.
Research has suggested that between 80 and 90m chocolate eggs are eaten annually in Britain. Using AI to rank the top ten easter eggs in the UK, it provided a list based on various factors, including brand recognition, sales data, and cultural impact until April 2023.
Worst options for your teeth
Terry's Chocolate Orange Easter Egg and Cadbury Mini Eggs Chocolate Easter Egg
These two options, tied with the highest sugar content at 59g per 100g, pose a significant risk to dental health. The high sugar levels can lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and cavities, as sugar feeds the harmful bacteria in the mouth. Frequent consumption of such high-sugar treats without proper oral hygiene can accelerate dental issues. It's advisable to consume these in moderation, followed by thorough teeth cleaning.
Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate Easter Egg
With 56g of sugar per 100g, this top-ranked easter egg is slightly less harmful but poses a considerable risk to teeth. The sugar content is high enough to contribute to tooth enamel erosion over time, promoting the development of cavities. Enjoying these treats should be balanced with diligent oral care practices, including brushing and using fluoride toothpaste.
Best Options for Your Teeth
Hotel Chocolat Extra Thick Easter Egg
Ranked by AI as the fifth most popular option with the lowest sugar content at 42.9g per 100g, this Easter egg is a relatively better choice for those concerned about oral health. Lower sugar levels mean a reduced risk of tooth decay, making it a preferable option for a sweet treat. However, it's still important to maintain regular oral hygiene routines after indulging.
Reese's Peanut Butter Creme Egg
The Reese's Peanut Butter Creme Egg, with its 50.9g of sugar per 100g, presents a somewhat lower sugar option, especially compared to other popular Easter treats. This difference, while seemingly small, can be significant when considering the overall impact of sugar consumption on dental health.
Maltesers Chocolate Easter Bunny
Ranking better than many other options at 51g of sugar per 100g, this Easter-themed treat is a middle-ground choice. While still sugary, it's less so than others on the list, suggesting a slightly lower risk to dental health.
Expert Advice
It's crucial to consider their sugar content when indulging in Easter treats, as this directly impacts dental health. High-sugar foods can accelerate tooth decay and promote the development of cavities by feeding the bacteria in the mouth that produce harmful acids.
Choosing options with lower sugar content and ensuring adherence to a comprehensive oral hygiene routine can help mitigate these risks. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and visiting a dentist for routine check-ups. Remember, moderation is key, and taking care of your teeth after enjoying these treats is essential for maintaining good oral health.
Author: Ferakh Hamid.